CBBC News

The job market can be pretty tough right now. COVID-19 has changed the game and these unusual circumstances have a lot of people looking to make changes in their careers. If you’re looking to change your path there are a LOT of industries that may be a bit of a gamble. But a great education and choosing a vocation that is in-demand is a wonderful way to set yourself on the path to success. 

One industry that is NOT suffering is healthcare. 

If you’re looking for a new career path, our Pharmacy Assistant Program is a fantastic option in the ever-growing healthcare field. Not only is the demand high for Pharmacy Assistants (just search “Pharmacy Assistant” job opportunities and you’ll see!), but it’s a great, stable career that opens doors into the exciting world of healthcare. CBBC Career College is the ONLY place that you’ll see this program in Nova Scotia, offered at both our Dartmouth and Sydney Campuses. 

According to settlement.org, a website that advises new Canadians on in-demand career opportunities, roles for Pharmacy Assistants are stable now and are expected to rise to keep up with the demand from an aging population in Canada. They also note that those with an education in the field have much better job prospects when applying for roles. 

So, what exactly does a day in the life of a Pharmacy Assistant look like? That depends on the day! If you’re looking for a repetitive desk job, this is NOT the career for you. You will be on your feet for the majority of the day (you’ll get those 10,000 steps in!) and have a variety of tasks to keep you busy and help your workday fly by. 

This is a dynamic position that requires skill, the ability to multitask, and an upbeat and outgoing personality. Pharmacy Assistant duties include working alongside Licensed Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians to help process prescriptions. Think of yourself as kind of the behind-the-scenes superhero. You’ll be the one that keeps everything going in the background so that the pharmacy can function. Without a Pharmacy Assistant, most pharmacies would be unorganized chaos!

Working in a pharmacy

If you take a role in a traditional pharmacy setting you’ll be interacting with customers on a daily basis. When someone calls the pharmacy to inquire about refilling a prescription, you’ll be the first voice they hear. It’s up to you to set the tone for the whole interaction. You’re the reassuring voice on the other end that helps them to know that their health is top priority. Once the prescription order is placed it may be up to you to assist the Pharmacists in filling the order. You’ll file it so that it’s waiting for the customer and be the smiling face that assists them when they come and pick up the order. 

Think about the impact you can have on a customer! People will be looking for a calm, concise, and knowledgeable person to help answer any questions that they may have (don’t worry, we’ll give you all the training you need over a 28-week course which includes a six-week practicum!). Starting a new medication or looking for answers related to health can be overwhelming. While the Pharmacist will handle the heavy questions, you’ll be there to reassure people and provide help where you can. 

When you’re not helping customers, the additional duties in your new role will be clerical and organizational in nature. You may be asked to help stock shelves, fill out some paperwork, and connect with doctors’ offices or insurance providers. You’ll meet a ton of new people, make great connections, and get to know a lot about different roles in healthcare!

Other opportunities

Working in a traditional pharmacy setting isn’t your only opportunity as a Pharmacy Assistant. Long-term care facilities also employ Pharmacy Assistants, as do hospitals, health care insurers, pharmaceutical computer program companies, and even research laboratories and facilities. Your career opportunities will be nearly endless!

What are you waiting for?

We would love to invite you to connect with us to learn more about our exciting and dynamic Pharmacy Assistant Program! To learn more and to connect with us, visit the program web page by clicking here. We look forward to chatting with you more about the exciting pharmacy assistant program and your new career opportunities.